Montepulciano

A robust, workhorse grape that has nothing to do with Vino Nobile de Montepulciano (which is made from Sangiovese), this variety does make good red wine in the Abruzzo region, Marche and down to Puglia. When ripe it has a warm, raisiny side that blends well with softer, high acid grapes like Sangiovese, and is often a bargain price on the shelf or in restaurants.